Video conference of the members of the European Council, 17 October 2023
Agenda highlights
In light of Hamas’ brutal terrorist attacks against Israel and the unfolding tragic scenes in the Gaza Strip resulting from the siege, President Charles Michel has convened an extraordinary European Council meeting, to be held by video conference on Tuesday 17 October at 17:30 CEST.
It is of utmost importance that the European Council, in line with the Treaties and our values, sets our common position and establishes a clear unified course of action that reflects the complexity of the unfolding situation.
European Council President Charles Michel
Statement on the situation in the Middle East
On 15 October the members of the European Council adopted a statement that sets out the EU’s common position on the unfolding situation in the Middle East.
The European Union condemns in the strongest possible terms Hamas and its brutal and indiscriminate terrorist attacks across Israel and deeply deplores the loss of lives. There is no justification for terror.
Statement agreed by the 27 members of the European Council on the situation in the Middle East
The EU stands in full solidarity with the people of Israel and the victims of the terrorist attacks. Israel has the right to defend itself in full compliance with international law, in particular international humanitarian law.
The members of the European Council called on Hamas to immediately release all hostages without any precondition.
They reiterated the importance of the provision of urgent humanitarian aid and stand ready to continue supporting those civilians most in need in Gaza, in coordination with partners.
On Tuesday, the European Council is expected to discuss:
- providing humanitarian assistance and avoiding a regional escalation of the conflict and any breaches of humanitarian law
- engagement with regional actors to seek a lasting and sustainable peace based on a two-state solution
- potential security consequences for our societies
-
the risk of onward migratory waves to Europe
Source: Press release – European Council
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